Achieving organizational training objectives with short course development

Rapidly changing technology and business needs in the dynamic telecommunications field demands that Motorola employ a best-in-class and yet practical education and training program so that employees can work most effectively. This paper is an experience report that chronicles one of a number of Motorola training approaches: short course development (SCD) designed to meet software development organization training needs. Short courses present considerable challenges because they usually are developed by individuals under time pressures from regular work, and who frequently possess limited professional skills in course design and adult education philosophies. Lessons learned from SCD will help educators and internal training specialists improve this important aspect of a corporate training program.